IMD in the USA
Disinformation Is an Infectious Disease
When: 18 September 2025
Time: 18:00 - 20:30 (USA Time)
Where: Online - Hodson Auditorium, Rosenstock Hall, Hood College, United States
Event Description:
We will screen the 2023 documentary "Shot in the Arm" as we examine the impact of disinformation campaigns that seek to sow distrust in vaccines and to downplay the impact of infectious diseases caused by microbial pathogens. We aim to help audiences understand how science and scientists work, to help them guard against unreliable information, and to build trust in science, medicine, and public health.
This event will be held in person as well as on Zoom.
Registration required for a Zoom invitation: https://tinyurl.com/mph-film-fest
Small but Mighty
When: 15 September - 13 October 2025
Time: 09:00 - 17:00
Where: Hodson Auditorium, Rosenstock Hall, Hood College, United States
Event Description
Get ready to go on a science adventure! Earth’s first living beings were tiny microorganisms. These incredible microbes shaped the planet billions of years ago—and they’re still at work today! They help make bread rise, protect us from getting sick, and even live deep in the ocean.
In this event, students in Grades 1–8 will journey from Earth’s earliest life to the microbes that influence our food, medicine, and even our future. Through stories, hands-on activities, and experiments, we’ll see how these tiny life forms are part of the great adventure of life on Earth. And, just like the explorers of long ago, we’ll connect with students in other schools by exchanging postcards and discoveries.
The event will launch on Monday at the school assembly. Prior to the launch, educators from partner schools will be invited to participate in the exchange. Following the kickoff, each age group will explore different topics and share their discoveries using picture postcards and podcasts.
Topics We’ll Explore:
The Coming of Life – Step back in time to Earth’s earliest microbes.
Invisible but Everywhere – Explore microbes in the ocean, soil, and even inside us.
Fermentation Fun – Discover how microbes help make bread, yogurt, and cheese.
Medicine Makers – Learn how they gave us antibiotics and vaccines.
Microbes of the Future – Imagine how microbes could solve tomorrow’s big problems.
Science Exchange – Share postcards and discoveries with partner schools.
Reflection & Celebration – Think like scientists and share bold ideas.
Speakers & Facilitators:
Lead Presenter: Michelle Velho, microbiologist with expertise in marine microbiology, antibiotics, vaccines, stem cells, and science education
Guest Speakers: Scientists (to be announced)
Target Audience: Students in Grades 1–8, educators, and partner schools.
In our schools all students will be registered. For school wishing to collaborate please email sciencemichelle@hudsonmontessori.net using the Subject: Small But Mighty ... Explore the wonders of microorganisms.